luA/uda Wu, risJr. TS/^'oJhd^ o 't Tyt^ia^c 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED 



LINCOLN'S Growth, 



PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE 



LINCOLN BOARD OF TRADE. 



A Brief Description of the Growth of Lincoln, with Illus- 
trations OF some of the Prominent Buildings, 
Public and Private. 



L. E. FITCH & CO., Publishers, 

181 North Eleventh St., LINCOLN, NEB. 



LINCOLN, NEB.: 

JOURNAL COMPANY, STATE PRINTERS. 
1887. 



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^K\>' 



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INTRODUCTION. 



The Board of Trade, in issuing this publication setting forth the 
natural and acquired advantages of the capital city of Nebraska, rec- 
ognize the fact that a plain statement of truths, in conservative and 
temperate language, will best subserve the objects sought after. The 
intention is to control the good opinion and secure the confidence of 
the reader. The final effect of colored misstatements is well under- 
stood: while they attract in the beginning they fall with scorn before 
the scrutinizing eyes of investigation in the end. 

With a determination not to deceive, realizing the great force of 
truth, desirous of securing to our city additional elements of prosper- 
ity, and believing that we possess more than ordinary facilities for 
building up a great commercial center, we have deemed it prudent 
and advisable to adopt this medium of inviting capitalists and men of 
means seeking residence or business location to come and examine 
for themselves the opportunities herein presented for the employ- 
ment of capital. It will be the duty, as well as the pleasure, of this 
Board to afford every facility to investors and business seekers for a 
practical examination of the advantages claimed for Lincoln as a res- 
idence, business, and manufacturing city. 

It is the duty of the Board to collect and impart reliable information, 
such as those desiring locations will seek for and require before invest- 
ing, and they therefore request a clear, personal scrutiny and consid- 
eration of subjoined statements, together with a careful and impartial 
examination on the ground to either verify or condemn what herein 
appears. The management of the Board will be satisfied with what- 
ever result may come from such an examination. It cannot be too 
rigid or too extensive; only let it be conducted upon practical business 
principles, and let the conclusion be fair and truthful. 




BURRS' BLOCK, Cor. and Twelfth Sts. 



LINCOLN, NEBRASKA. 




EARLY SETTLERS OF LINCOLN. 



HE first settlement made in this vicmity was durmg the 
summer of 1857. W. L Donovan, a steamboat captain, 
afterwards a prominent citizen of the state, first brolce th^'' 
sleep of centuries, by building a cabin within the present 
city limits. Thereafter an occasional pioneer wandered 
into this almost untenanted territory and staked out his 
claim, unloaded his scanty supply of worldly goods, and 
went to work with a will to rear a home. Thus the 
country was slowly inhabited and gradually developed, 
under many difficulties, and amidst surrounding doubts and uncei'tain- 
ties the town of Lancaster (afterwards Lincoln) was laid out and pro- 
claimed to the world in the stormy year of 1863. 

TWENTY YEARS AGO. 

The proclamation announcing the state of Nebraska was issued by 
President Andrew Johnson in March, 1867. The capital was then 
located at Omaha, but the question was being strongly agitated of 
making a change from that place to a more natural and accessible 
point, and soon resulted in the passage of a bill by the special session 
of the legislature called soon after the president's announcement, enti- 
tled, "An act to provide for the location of the seat of government of 
the state of Nebraska, and for the erection of public buildings thereat." 
The act also provided for a commission to select and locate the site, 
and named certain conditions that should partially control their actions. 
Thus constituted and equipped, they started to canvass the broad and 
sparsely settled prairies of the new state, to select a place to found 
a future capital city and a metropolis. They visited and considered 
I several points that presented their advantages and aspired to ■ the 
I distinction, but after careful and due deliberation they unanimously 




LEDWITH BLOCK, Cor Eleventh and P Sts 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



chose the town-site of Lancaster, and the quiet and obscure Httle village 
of the plains lost its identity in the future city of Lincoln. 

THE CENTRAL LOCATION. 

The present location of our capital city was chosen from physical 
causes, and is referred to by the commission in their report in the fol- 
lowing words : " We found a gently-undulating surface, its principal 
elevation being near the center of the proposed new site, the village 
already established being in the midst of a thrifty and considerable 
agricultural population, rock, timber, and water-power being available 
within short distances, the center of the great saline region within two 
miles; and, in addition to all other claims, the special advantage was 
that its location was at the center of a circle of about one hundred and 
ten miles in diameter, along or near the circumference of which are — 
the Kansas state line, directly south, the important towns of Pawnee 
City, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, Omaha, Fremont, and Columbus. 
Under these circumstances we entertained the proposition of the peo- 
ple residing in the vicinity of Lancaster." 

The great care and rare judgment shown by the commissioners in 
selecting this site for the building of the capitol has been fully demon- 
strated by the test of years, and their wisdom has been intensified by 
the efforts of labor and skill, supported by the expenditure of millions 
of money, thus adding greatly to its natural advantages. 

RAPID GROWTH. 
The rapid growth of Lincoln has kept pace with the marked changes 
that have taken place in city building throughout the West. Its build- 
ings are as substantial, and the increase in population is proportionate 
to any or all others. The wonderful steps made during the last few 
years, by which towns have sprung up and suddenly become well-equip- 
ped cities, is marvelous indeed, and makes a striking period in the 
history of our country's advancement, that will hereafter afford oppor- 
tunity for pleasant and instructive reflection. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



The following statistics show the ratio of increase in the population 
and the valuation of property of Lincoln : 

Ratio of 
Population. 'Increase. 

1867, September first 500 

1870, " 4,500 

1875, " 7,300 

1878, " 13,700 

1879, " 14,500 6 per cent. 

1880, " 15,000 3 per cent. 

1 88 1, " 16,000 6 

1882, " 17,751 II 

1883, " 18,897 7 

1884, " 19.345 3 

1885, " . . . ■ 22,800 17 " 

1886, " 29,000 28 " 

1887, " 43,000 46 " 

The increase during the past twelve months is remarkable and un- 
paralleled, and far exceeds the growth of any city of similar size in the 
United States, for the same period. 

The past certainly aftbrds substantial reasons (that still exist) upon 
which to base the belief that this city has entered upon an era of pros- 
perity that will continue, and that in the j'ear 1900 the population will 
not be less than 1 50,000 persons. 



STATE BUILDINGS. 

In all other states of the Union the public buildings are erected at 
difllerent localities, giving to each considerable portion of the state rep- 
resentation and prominence in this respect. While this satisfies sec- 
tional demand and equalizes advantages throughout the state, it is not 
in reality for the public good, because it is inconvenient, consuming time, 
increasing expense, and decreasing efficiency. 

The principal institutions of the state should be concentrated at the 
capital city, so that their management and condition can be easily and 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 15 



Speedily investigated by state committees or boards of inspection; also 
that they may be constantly under the scrutiny of the proper state 
officials. Therefore commendable foresight was used in the Nebraska 
legislature that made a new departure in the act providing for the 
erection of all public buildings at the seat of government. Again, the 
concentration of these public interests of the commonwealth at this 
point is a great advantage to Lincoln, and is a strong guarantee of 
future growth. 

They are, standing alone, a small city, and will rapidly increase in 
size and importance as the state expands. 

The magnificent solid structures, with their beauty of design and 
perfect execution, are a source of pride to the citizens, and a marked 
attraction to visitors. Their location here adds directly to the wealth, 
population, and prominence of Lincoln. 

The tollowing is the number and cost of the buildings completed : 

Capitol building, rapidly approaching completion $ 602,000 

Insane Asylum, completed 275,000 

Penitentiary, completed • 265,000 

University, and additions under construction ....... 240,000 

Agricultural College, and additions under construction . . 40,000 

Home of the Friendless 28,000 

$1,450,000 

Also, the general government has built in the central square a sub- 
stantial and attractive U. S. post-office, court house, and government 
office building, that cost ^214,000, and is a fitting opiament to that 
portion of the city. 

COUNTY BUILDINGS. 

The county buildings are located at this place, and, in addition to 
others, a creditable court house is now under process of construction, 
that will cost, when completed, $200,000. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 17 



CHURCHES. 

There are twenty-four first-class church edifices in the city, besides 
several smaller buildings devoted to public worship, representing all 
classes of religious denominations, and costing in the aggregate 
^725,000. Their attractive beauty can be pointed to with pride; they 
are not only pleasing to the sight, but their influence is wholesome 
to the mind. They bespeak the high moral tone, intelligence, and 
refinement of our citizens, and indicate a large church -going 
community. 

GENERAL BUILDINGS. 

Two thousand buildings have been constructed in this city during 
the last twelve months. Many of the residences are very expensive, 
and the architecture is very attractive. Also the construction of "busi- 
ness blocks has been unprecedented. Some of the stona fronts would 
do credit to the most circumspect eastern cities. The buildings are all 
rented promptly on completion at good rentals, and there is scarcely a 
vacant house or store-room that is not in demand. Those desiring to 
invest funds could not do better than build business houses in Lincoln. 
Besides the increase in value of the property, the ready rentals would 
make a return of at least twenty per cent on the original amount. 

COST OF BUILDING. 

The cost of building material, considered as a whole, is compara- 
tively cheap. The most expensive item is lumber, but there are several 
continuous lines of railway that reach Lincoln direct from lumber manu- 
facturing districts in Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Mississippi river and 
other points, making the cost, compared with the distance, proportion- 
ately low. Superior white fossil limestone is quarried extensively 
within a few miles of the city ; the capitol, government, and other 
prominent buildings in this city are constructed of this stone; its dura- 
bility is almost endless; when exposed to the action of the elements it 
retains its color, and equals granite in appearance. Also lime and 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



sand are cheap and easily obtained. Again, superior brick are manu- 
factured within the city limits and sold at a very low price, not 
exceeding ^6 per thousand. The cost of building is certainly an 
important item, and taken in connection with value of building lots, 
should strongly recommend this city to those desiring to locate West. 

REAL ESTATE. 

The real estate transactions during the past season are far in excess 
of previous years, and while the comparative advance in property has 
been very rapid, the figures are not at the present time on an extrava- 
gant basis. The prices are absolutely low compared with those in 
other cities of less or equal standing and prospects. There is no doubt 
that lots well located can be purchased at fair cost, and will increase 
in valuation twenty to fifty per cent during the next year, and the rise 
will be proportionate during the next ten years. Large fortunes have 
been made here within a short period by holders of real estate on 
small investments, and it is assured by circumstances that the growih 
of the city and the advance in property will not stop so long as the 
state of Nebraska rapidly increases in population, and certainly the 
progress of the state will not hesitate or stop, but will continue for 
several years to come. 

If well-poised conclusions, reached through fixed premises, have 
worth and weight, then the growth of Lincoln and the advance in real 
estate will be constant, certain, and rapid. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



25 



RELIABLE REAL ESTATE STATISTICS. 



Popu- 
lation. 



Cor. Lots, 
depth in ft. 



Pi ice per front ' 
loot, Dollars. 



Residence 
Lots. 



Price per 
front ft., 
Dollars. 



Chicago . . 
Buffalo . . . 
Cleveland 
Milwaukee . 
Detroit . . . 
Minneapolis . 
St. Paul . . 
Kansas City . 
Indianapolis 
Omaha . . , 
LINCOLN 
Siou.x City . 
Toledo . . . 
Duluth . . . 



750.000 

240,604 

227,000 

165,000 

155,000 

1 35 000 

120,000 

105,042 

go, 000 

78,000 

45,000 

30, 000 

50,142 

17,000 



100 to I£0 2,000 to 3,000 

ICO 800 to 1,000 
150 to 165 ; Soo to 1,200 
250 to 600 

I,2O0 to 1,500 

500 to 650 
500 lo 700 
600 to I, Soo 
600 
440 to 600 

142 ; 1511 to 400 
150! 15010 500 

100 to 165 600 to 1,200 
140 I 200 to 1,600 



125 to 180 j 50 to 700 

125 to 200 ! 12 ta^o 

So to 150 10 to 500 

. . . . : 20 to 200 

150 10 to 300 

.... 15 to 300 

125 15 to 300 

. . . . : 25 to 300 

125 ' 20 to 150 
. . . . 20 to 150 
130 to 142 ; 5 to 75 
150 1 5 to 60 
300 i 5 to 100 
150 15 to 100 



COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS. 
Month. Year. VALrATiON. Month. Year. Valuation' 



January, i 

February, 

March, 

April, 

May, 

June, 



i 75.600 
80,850 

113,290 
98,600 

104,320 
96 460 



January, 1S87 

February, " 

March, 

April, " 

May, 

June, " 



$ 765,060 
930,290 
1,872,280 
1,634,860 
1,273,290 
1,1 10,340 



), 120 $7,586,120 

These figures have been carefully prepared from the abstract 
records showing the realty transactions for the first half of 1882, and 
five years later, being the present year. It is supposed they will 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 29 



suffice to demonstrate the existence of facts seemingly almost beyond 
belief, but they are correct statistics, and can be easily verified. 
Considering what has occurred in the past, the predictions made for 
the future are certainly without exaggeration. 

An examination of the above figures plainly shows that Lincoln 
prices are proportionately very much less than the other western cities 
named, some ol them being of much less importance in all respects. 

NEWSPAPE.RS. 

There are three daily newspapers printed and published in Lincoln. 
Of these the Daily State journal, edited by Gere & Hathaway, is the 
oldest and most prominent; it is republican m. politics. Also the State 
Journal Company has the largest printing establishment in the West, 
employs 175 persons, is doing in a very superior manner all kinds 
of book and job printing, electrotyping, lithographing, and book 
binding, and is able to compete successfully with similar establishments 
in Chicago and New York. 

The Daily Democrat is a democratic paper. It is ably edited and 
managed by J. D. Calhoun, has a large circulation, and is rapidly 
growing in business. 

Each of these newspapers is conducted with decided ability, is a 
leading party organ, is well known abroad, and exerts a strong influence 
within the state on all matters of public and general interest. 

The Daily Evening News is a newsy, spicy sheet, devoted to miscel- 
laneous reading and local affairs. 

Also there are several weekly newspapers and other publications 
that ably fill their respective spheres. 

. LIBRARIES. 

Lincoln has exceedingly large, well supplied libraries, free to all 
persons, under certain restrictions easily complied with, and large 
additions are being continually made to each. They are as follows: 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED 



31 



City library 5.500 volumes 

University library 8,830 volumes 

State library 25,000 volumes 

Total 39i330 volumes 

This extraordinary number of books includes all classes of reading. 

SALINE DEPOSITS. 

The saline region adjacent to Lincoln is of great natural advantage, 
and was a strong reason for erecting the capitol at this place. The 
deposits have not been utilized to any great extent, but this fact does 
not detract from their importance, and unquestionably this city is des- 
tined in the future to be an extensive salt manufacturing point. 

Under the provision of the state govei nment, a well is being sunk 
to the depth of 2,000 feet, to test the brine at different depths and to 




BURLINGTON & MISSOURI RIVER R. R. DEPOT. 




pj O M M Ig gltli l hm 






■:.>.W!|&3ii:£l'^M 




LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



33 



learn the nature of underlying formations. A fine quality of very 
strong salt is the result of the tests that have already been made 



•Ci^ „<;'t: 




Also, Eastern capitalists, recognizing the worth of these resources 
here awaiting development, have accepted the provisions of a state 
lease, and will soon put in an extensive plant. When it is considered 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



35 



that the entire western country receive their salt supply from New 
York and Michigan, the value of the enterprise will be appreciated. 




There is no item of consumption shipped into the state that equals 
this article in tonnage, and the material reduction in the price will be 
of incalculable benefit. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 37 



POST OFFICE. 

A strong indication of Lincoln's rapid growth is shown by the com- 
parative receipts of the post-office. The comparative total receipts are : 
i875,$io,357.6o; 1876, $12,497.40; 1877, $14,537.78; 1878, $19,315.45; 
1879, $23,990.22; i88o,$25, 563.13; 1881, $31,882. 34; 1882, $35,642.17; 
1883, $38,571.72; 1 884, $36,066.89; 1885, $40,507.89; 1886, $47,269.81; 
1887, $70,000.00. The last five months of 1887 are estimated. 

The proportionate decrease in 1884 was the result of two-cent 
being substituted for three-cent stamps. In 1885 first-class matter was 
doubled, decreasing the receipts twenty-five per cent. 

The number of pieces of mail delivered was: First half of 1882, 
464,340; 1886,673,348; 1887, 1,283,272. 

EDUCATIONAL BUILDINGS. 

There are thirteen excellent school buildings, costing $275,000. The 
following figures, furnished by the city superintendent, show the aver- 
age attendance during the last five years : 

1883 2,404 scholars. 

1884 3,489 

1885 4,513 

1886 6,526 

1887 (closing with spring term) . . . 9,722 " 

Estimate 45^ persons to each scholar in approximating population. 
The public schools have, by a system of classification and grading, 
been so ranked that students graduating from them are given advanced 
standing in the State University, thus connecting the common schools 
with the higher advantages of education, making the course rapid, 
thorough, and expense small. 

Also, we have the richly endowed State University and Medical and 
Agricultural Colleges, with their learned chancellor and fine corps of 
forty able professors. The last annual attendance was six hundred and 
thirty students, and forty-eight graduates. 

Recently Lincoln was selected as the site of the new Methodist Uni- 
versity of Nebraska, and the main building is being erected at a cost 
of $100,000. Again, there are several academies and private schools, 
with deservedly high reputations. No doubt the arts and sciences will 
soon be taught in our city in a manner equal to the best universities 
of America and Europe. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 39 



AMUSEMENTS. 

The city has three first-class theatres, and the construction of an- 
other is provided for, with magnificent proportions and superior finish 
and appointments. These are at proper seasons supplied with the 
best operatic and theatrical talent the country affords. The manage- 
ment of each is creditable, and their energy untiring, and the citizens 
of Lincoln have all the advantages of the best skill and ability that 
delight eastern cities. 

HOTELS. 

An important feature of any city is the hotels. They make the first 
and last impression on the visitor, and have no small influence in 
building up a metropolis. 

While Lincoln has grown comparatively beyond precedent, and there 
has been an immense infiux of travel, the supply ot accommodations has 
in all respects always been equal to the demand. They are excellent 
in all their appointments, the buildings are large and well renovated, 
rooms commodious and well filled, meals sumptuous, and prices rea- 
sonable. 

STATE FAIR. 

For twenty years the state board of agriculture has given annual 
exhibitions of the products of the state. These lairs have been held 
in various cities and towns, and have met with a fair measure of 
success. For five years preceding 1884 the fairs were held at Omaha, 
and while the results were somewhat favorable, the location was 
unfortunate, and a relocation at a central point was thought advisable- 
three years ago, and the magnificent grounds now occupied at Lincoln 
were selected. These grounds are less than two miles from the 
center of the city, and are well adapted to fair purposes, being easily 
accessible by railways, motor lines, street cars, and private con- 
veyances. 

Since the fair has been located at Lincoln the success of the enter- 
prise has been wonderful. The attendance each succeeding season 
has increased one hundred per cent over previous years. This is 
because people can reach Lincoln so conveniently that every town 
and section within the state contributes largely to the gatherings. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 



41 



HEALTH. 

One of Lincoln's strongest inducements to tliose seeking locations 
is its marvelous health record; there is not a city in the world that is 
more inviting- in this respect. 

During i8S6 the deaths recorded were only 264, with an average 
population of 32,000. The ratio being one death to every 121 
inhabitants. From January ist to August ist, 1887, 230 deaths 
were recorded; average population, 40,000; estimated death rate 
during the year, one person for every 1 17 inhabitants. Consider in 
the latter estimate that the late summer has been very prostrating, 
and the death rate all over the country unusually large ; also that 
the closing months of the year are reckoned on the same basis as 
the summer months, while the actual number of deaths was pro- 
portionately less. Again, the number of deaths stated includes infants 
that scarcely had an existence, those that died from accidents, and 
invalids that reached Lincoln when the sands of life had just run out. 

The causes for the remarkable record are, partially, that the city is 
located on elevated ground on the broad prairies of the state, the 
atmosphere is dry and pure, the water is excellent, food whole- 
some, the natural drainage is unsurpassed. Streams of running 
water flow on every side. There are no marshes or stagnant bodies 



I ^';f^-:^ ^'ajg^-- 






Resde ce of JOHN R CLARK 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 43 



of water to breed diseases. In other words, all the conditions prevail 
that promote health, and few of the opposing elements exist that 
destroy life. 

' STOCK YARDS. 

During 1884 stock yards were established at West Lincoln, and 
an extensive, well equipped enterprise has rewarded the efforts ot the 
company. The organization control 1,180 acres of valuable lands. 
They have expended $231,000 in making improvements. In addition 
to extensive yards they have complete water works, a first-class hotel, 
a population of several hundred, several important manufactories 
in operation, and others in process of development. Several lines of 
railway now reach the grounds, and a motor line is completed to 
supply the demand of local travel. 

Stock yards are an absolute necessity to the prosperity of a city 
located in an agricultural district, affording a ready market at all 
times for the sale of horses, cattle, hogs, and sheep. Although the 
company is comparatively new, its success is assured by the excellent 
showing made, and Lincoln will at no distant day be one of the 
leading stock markets of the West. 

PACKING HOUSES. 

The packing interests of the country arc rapidly moving and locat- 
ing West, so they may be nearer the stock producing districts. This 
reduces the length of the haul of the live animals, avoids the bruising 
of the flesh, and saves shrinkage ; also cost of feed, time, and expense in 
marketing are saved. Again, the great advancement made in refriger- 
ator service is favorable to these conditions, as it not only preserves 
meats but improves the quality by adding to the length of time in 
cold storage. Statistics show that Chicago for years had a monopoly 
of the packing trade of this country, but their output of product has 
during the last year decreased rapidly, while more than a correspond- 
ing increase has been made at western points. Packing houses will 
be established In the West, where the greatest amount of stock can 
be concentrated and the product distributed at least expense of time 
and money. Also, the points that by virtue of their physical location 
command these vast interests will be the great commercial centres 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 45 



of the future, because it necessitates concentration of wealth and 
people. 

Existing facts plainly demonstrate that Lincoln has superior advan- 
tages as a packing point. Two houses have lately been constructed 
that killed 1 13,400 hogs, for which ^1,395,000 were paid from Decem- 
ber 1st to August 1st last, and the numberwould have reached 250,000 
if the packing houses had been constructed with cold storage to freeze 
the meats and room to store the product. Arrangements have now 
been perfected by which these deficiencies have been provided for, and 
with the present killing ca])acity a large comparative increase will be 
made. Also other packing houses are being arranged for, and most 
favorable results must follow. 

Three-fourths of the hogs of Nebraska are direcdy tributary to 
Lincoln. This is not true of any other point. 

Two-thirds of the live stock shipped out of the state pass through 
Lincoln. 

Fifteen thousand cars of live stock passed through this city within 
the last twelve months. 

In addition to saving time, distance, etc., the rates on live stock, 
considered with the distributing rates from Lincoln to all points East, 
South, and West, are less than the sum of the rates at other packing 
points on Nebraska live stock. 

Lincoln is the extreme western packing city in the United States, 
and is therefore the nearest packing point to the stock producing 
regions it aspires to control. 

If the conditions as named are correct on which packing houses are 
established, then Lincoln will be one of the leading packing cities of 
the United States. 

SEWERAGE. 

The sanitary condition of Lincoln will always be most excellent. 
The natural sewerage drains every point in the city ; in addition, 
a very complete system of artificial sewerage is being constructed ; 
already 14 miles of pipe have been placed at an expense of $80,000, 
and the work is progressing rapidly to completion. The sewerage 
is emptied into Salt Creek, a large stream with an active current that 
will easily bear away the waste matter of the city. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 47 



PAVING. 

The contract for ten miles ot city paving has been awarded, and 
the work of construction has been commenced and will be prosecuted 
vigorously. Cedar blocks are used with concrete base, and the entire 
cost will be about one-quarter million dollars. 

STREET RAILWAYS. 

The present and proposed systems of street railway of Lincoln are 
on a somewhat gigantic scale, and indicate great faith in the future 
of this city on the part of the promoters, who are investing a large 
amount of capital. The lines in operation are well equipped, and 
conducted in a manner creditable to the managers and beneficial to 
the city. Cars are run every fifteen minutes each way, on uniform 
time, to all parts of Lincoln and suburbs. A good street railway sys- 
tem is an indispensable assistant to the development of a growing city, 
making the remote sections easily available. The construction of the 
system was commenced in the fall of 1 8^3, and the tracks have been 
rapidly extended.' At present the horse car company has seventeen 
miles of track under one management, and continual extensions are 
being made. 

In addition, a double track cable line is provided for, and will be 
constructed and put in operation at an early date. The length of 
the initial line will be two and a half miles, and the cost $400,000; 
also, a steam motor railway has been completed, equipped, and just 
commenced running trains. This line has five miles in operation, 
connecting the central part of the city with the fair grounds and West 
Lincoln. The convenience and benefits of this new enterprise are 
almost incalculable, as it draws distant and now unavailable points 
close together, and 'places unoccupied lands within easy reach of the 
business center. 

WATERWORKS. 

The city waterworks are built on the stand-pipe system. , Nineteen 
miles of water mains have been laid, at a cost of ^j^i 25,000. The daily 
capacity of the water supply is 2,800,000 gallons. The source of the 
supply was developed in a novel manner. An immense well, forty 
feet in diameter, was sunk fifty feet; at the bottom of the well a 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 49 



system of tubing was sunk to water level, and in this manner an 
ample supply of pure, clear water is secured, that is free from animal 
and vegetable matter, any kind of sediment, or animalculae. As the 
demand for water increases with the growth of the city, other wells 
can be sunk in a similar manner, affording additional supply. The 
waterworks are owned by the city. The net revenue accruing 
amounts to $15,000 per annum. 

GRAIN DEALERS. 

The amount of grain of all kinds handled . by operators located at 
Lincoln is enormous, approximating thirty-five thousand cars during 
the year ending Aug. 31st, 1887. Estimating 550 bushels per car, 
total number of bushels, 19, 2 50,000 ^ estimated cost, $4,812,500. 

A RAILROAD CENTER. 

Lincoln is located in the midst of a network of railways. There are 
ten distinct lines diverging from, and 932 miles of track (on which 112 
towns and cities are located) within fifty-five miles of the city. Also, 
eighty per cent of the 3,484 miles of railway within the state has 
direct connection with this city, based on short distances. The impor- 
tance of these statements can be appreciated when it is understood that 
it is by no means true of any other point within Nebraska. 

THE RAILROADS. 

The Burlington & Missouri River Railway is the pioneer line to 
Lincoln. The property is owned and controlled by the Chicago, Bur- 
lington & Quincy Railway, and in connection with that company lorms 
a direct route from Chicago, Peoria, and Mississippi river points to 
Lincoln. The system is much the largest and most important within 
the state, and this city is the center for all their operations. Their 
freight and passengers arrive over their main line from the East, and 
are distributed over six diverging branch lines from this point. It 
requires the constant use ot eight switch enganes to perform the 
necessary service in handling cars and making up trains, and the pay 
roll at this place averages 1,000 employes. The lines of this company 
reach every county located in the southern halt of this state, and 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 51 



traverse the counties of Northern Kansas. They afford a direct route 
with Chicago, St. Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Cheyenne, and St. Paul, 
and make direct connection with roads reaching beyond those cities. 
In addition, the system is being rapidly extended in all sections of 
Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming, and it is predicted they 
will soon build to the Pacific coast and spread their rails over Utah 
and California, thus giving this city easy access to the entire resources 
of the great West. The permanent and increasing advantages of the 
Burlington & Missouri River Railway to Lincoln cannot be overesti- 
mated. They practically control the trade in territory west of the 
Missouri river in which this city holds commercial relations. As their 
main line runs direct from the East to this, but directly to no other 
city within the state, and their branch or distributing lines radiate 
from this, but from no other city within the state, their influence 
must eventually be concentrated in the prosperity of Lincoln. 

The Union Pacific Railroad is also an important railway factor 
reaching this city. Their lines traverse various sections of this state 
and Kansas. In addition to giving favorable connection with this 
territory, they form direct routes to all points in Colorado, Utah, 
Wyoming, Montana, Nevada, California, and Oregon. 

The Missouri Pacific Railway was built to Lincoln about one year 
ago, and is of vast importance to our business interests. This company 
is known as the Gould system. They reach Kansas City, St. Louis, 
Memphis, New Orleans, and principal points in Kansas, Missouri, Ar- 
kansas, Texas, and Louisiana, and through their connections all points 
East and South. 

The Fremont, Elkhojn & Missouri Valley is the last railway com- 
pleted to Lincoln, and was built under the auspices of the Chicago & 
Northwestern Railway Company. The lines of this interest reach 
Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and all principal points in northern Illi- 
nois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and Dakota, and is particularly 
valuable to this city in giving direct connection with the lumber manu- 
facturing districts of Wisconsin. Also the tracks of this company 
will soon be completed to Deadwood, Dakota, and a projected line will 
at an early date have direct connection with the Southern Pacific Rail- 
way and the Pacific coast, while other extensions will penetrate Utah 
and Montana. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 53 



PROPOSED RAILROADS. 
The commercial importance of Lincoln has reached such magnitude 
that other railway lines anticipate building here in the near future. 
The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway has constructed during 
the last year considerable mileage in the southern part ot the state, 
and intend making further extensions. Their track is now within 
35 miles of Lincoln, and will unquestionably be extended to this 
city within a very short time. Thence a line will be built connecting 
with their system in Iowa, thus giving Lincoln another direct Chicago 
route and additional distributing territory west. The Chicago, Mil- 
waukee & St. Paul Railway is another extensive line that now termi- 
nates within fifty miles of Lincoln. It is a very progressive corpora- 
tion, and will no doubt construct its lines to Lincoln within a reason- 
able time. The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway has expressed 
an intention of identifying its system with Lincoln and the state of 
Nebraska by constructing lines at an early date. The Chicago, St. 
Paul & Kansas City Railway (Diagonal system) is corresponding 
with Lincoln parties in expectation of making extensions in this 
direction in the near future. 

THE BOARD OF TRADE 

Is organized under the laws of the state and is composed of the best 
business men of the city, including all classes. 

The object of the organization is to guard closely and carefully all 
acquired advantages, and to look after and promote accessions that 
will contribute to the welfare of the city; to furnish thoroughly reliable 
information relating to tlie natural and cultivated facilities of Lincoln as 
a manufacturing and jobbing center, and to induce enterprising parties 
with capital to engage in various business pursuits that the wants of the 
trade demand. 

THE LINCOLN FREIGHT BUREAU 

Is an organization within the Board of Trade, and is composed of 
the leading jobbers and manufacturers of Lincoln. It is their province 
to scrutinize railroad rates, to see that charges on all classes of freight 
to, and distributing r^tes from, .Lincoln are as just and reasonable 
to the shipping interests as those at other commercial points competing 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 55 



for the same trade. The railway interests of the country are so great 
and so diversified, and the solicitations so constant and urgent lor con- 
cessions in favor of certain localities, that a Freight Bureau is a very 
necessary auxiliary to the prosperity of a commercial city. 

BANKS. 

There are five National and two Savings Banks in Lincoln, with a 
capital and surplus of $1,781,000. The excellence of these banks 
is a good index to the solidity of the city financially. In addition 
to those referred to, there are numerous private parties loaning 
millions of dollars for eastern capitalists, and those desiring to bor- 
row money can always obtain an ample amount at liberal per cent 
of interest on good real estate or other securities. 

WHOLESALE TRADE. 

A jobbing and distributing point is based on its opportunities to pur- 
chase supplies at all the various markets abroad, its proximity to the 
retail trade, and in- and out-shipping facilities. This city purchases 
miscellaneous merchandise at Atlantic seaboard, interior, and Southern 
cities; also, sugar, teas, canned goods, and fruits from Pacific slope points, 
and from all these sources has several direct railway lines. In addition 
they handle largely articles manufactured and produced to advantage 
at home, such as crackers, canned vegetables, vinegar, etc. This city 
is near the geographical center of the United States, and is in position, 
therefore, to gather the products and wares from all sections to advan- 
tage, and in this respect is not surpassed by any jobbing center in the 
country. While Lincoln is not located in the center of Nebraska 
physically, it is nearer the great producing regions of the state than 
any city aspiring to control the trade. Two-thirds of the shipments of 
merchandise distributed within the state originate at or pass directly 
through Lincoln. The in and out distances based on Lincoln are less 
than those of any city distributing goods in Nebraska. The cost of 
goods in the hands of the jobber is the invoice price plus the freight. 
The principal advantage, therefore, is in the distributing facilities. 
Herein rests the superiority of this place. It is situated further west 
than any other jobbing point. Orders for goods are received from the 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 57 



retailer, and the goods in return are received at destination one to 
three days quicker than if purchased elsewhere. Also, the same rule 
will apply in case the retailer wishes to visit and to purchase in per- 
son. Also, retail business throughout the state is done on small mar- 
gins and with limited capital. All these conditions will eventually award 
the distributing trade to this city, as it saves time and money. Again, 
there is scarcely a town or city in the state but that has direct connec- 
tion with this point. 

Also, the jobbing operations of Lincoln are not confined to Ne- 
braska, but the domain of Kansas, Dakota, Colorado, ^nd the entire 
great West will afford markets for our energetic merchants. The 
wholesale trade of this city is in its infancy. There is not a competing 
point but that was doing a prosperous business before Lincoln had an 
existence. The most of the operators here commenced as retailers, ex- 
panding with the growth of the city and its mercantile demands. Their 
sales now aggregate millions. They are all prosperous, as their large 
brick blocks with iron and stone facings, filled with valuable goods, 
attest. 

The classes of trade represented are : Groceries, Teas, Spices, 
Coffees, etc.. Dry Goods and Notions, Flour and Feed, Lumber, Coal, 
Implements, Hardware, Drugs, Furniture, Liquors and Cigars, Con- 
fectionery, Harness and Saddlery, Pumps, Pipes, and Iron Fittings, 
Queensware and Crockery, Paper and Stationery, Stone Dealers, 
Produce and Commission, and Miscellaneous. 

The growth of the country has been rapid in its increase in wealth 
and population, but there is ample room for additional houses represent- 
ing all lines in the jobbing trade. A broad, rich field is open, and suc- 
cess is beyond peradventure to those with enterprise and capital who 
may be so fortunate as to invest. 

RETAIL TRADE 

Of Lincoln has been uniformly prosperous, and all lines of business 
are well represented. The growth of the city in buildings and increase 
in population have been so rapid, however, that commercial interests 
have not kept equal pace with the rapid strides thus made, and there 
are now splendid opportunities afforded for those seeking to locate in 
the various classes of retail trade. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 59 



The following is the number of firms engaged in the retail business 
at present: 

72 Groceries. 19 Dry goods. 

25 Drugs. 20 Fruit and confectionery. 

12 Hardware. 13 Lumber. 

9 Implements. 12 Clothing and furnishing goods. 

13 Tailoring establishments. 8 Musical instruments. 

6 Furniture. 6 Saddler>'. 

8 Cigars and tobacco. 7 Boots and shoes. 

7 Coal and wood, 6 Flour and feed. 

6 Stationery. 6 Paints and wall paper. 

6 Millinery. 5 Marble dealers. 

5 Plumbers. 4 Pumps. 

4 Notions. 3 Coal oil. 

3 Undertakers. 2 Queensware. 



MANUFACTORIES. 

The same reasons that demonstrate Lincoln's advantages as a job- 
bing city apply to manufactories. The purchase of crude material, 
favorable freight charges on the same, and, finally, the distributing 
rates, these are the principal conditions on which the success of such 
enterprises depends. It is true in the progress of all agricultural 
countries that manufactories develop slowly ; they follow after the 
lands are occupied and the business of the state is fully organized. 
They are decided on and erected after due deliberation, and are 
located at the well defined railway and commercial centers. Man- 
ufacturing enterprises are just beginning to show a representation in 
this city, but it is creditable, and they will no doubt grow rapidly. 
There are already brick and tile works, canning factory, vinegar 
works, tanning company, three flouring mills, foundries and machine 
shops, glove and mitten factory, blank-book and office supplies, 
planing-mills, cornice works, cigars, pottery works, brooms, trunks, 
stencil and rubber stamps, carriages, artificial stone, harness and sad- 
dlery, and agricultural implements; also, investment of capital placed 
in building additional would prove remunerative with reasonable good 
management. 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 6i 



A PAPER MILL. 

The supply of paper is shipped from eastern states, and subjected 
to a freight charge of at least twenty-five cents per hundred pounds. 
Straw can be purchased cheaper at Lincoln than at eastern points; 
water and lime are available, and coal costs but $2.50 per ton. The 
profit is at once apparent. 

SOAP WORKS. 

The soap consumed is shipped from Chicago and elsewhere, while 
tallow, grease, fuel, and all the requisites for cheap manufacture are 
to be found here at low prices. 

WAGONS AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS 

are shipped to all parts of Nebraska from abroad, and very high 
rates are assessed. There is not an extensive implement factory in 
the entire West. All such articles as vehicles, machines lor farm use, 
etc , can be constructed as cheap in Lincoln as at eastern points. 
Hardwood lumber can be purchased in Missouri and Arkansas and 
shipped direct by Missouri Pacific Railway at very reasonable figures; 
also iron and coal are cheap. 

LINSEED OIL MILL. 

Nebraska grows flax very successkilly. It is now shipped to 
eastern factories and the oil re-shipped to this state. A mill located 
at Lincoln would save these double freight charges. 

WOOLEN MILLS. 

Sheep raising is profitable and becoming extensive in this state. 
The manufacture of woolen cloths, blankets, etc., has been a very 
great success wherever tried. This is another instance of shipping 
the product out of the state to be manufactured and then shipping 
the manufactured article back again for consumption. 

WIND MILLS. 

There will eventually be a wind mill erected on every farm within 
the state, besides their extensive use in the towns. They will harness 



LINCOLN ILLUSTRATED. 63 



up the winds and make them obedient to the will of every house- 
hold. There is no industry that would be more profitable than 
their extensive manufacture. 

OAT- MEAL MILL. 

The oat-meal, pearl barley, and grits consumed in Kansas, Ne- 
braska, and the entire West is shipped from the East, manufactured 
largely from western products. This enterprise cannot be too 
strongly recommended. 

FOUNDRY AND MACHINE SHOP. 

While several small enterprises of this class are in operation, 
extensive works are badly needed. Scrap-iron, rails, etc., in large 
quantities are shipped East, and iron store fronts are manufactured 
and shipped West. It is evident this material should be utilized at 
home. 

Besides those mentioned above, there are many other manufactur- 
ing industries which could be engaged in most profitably— such as 
boot and shoe factories, chemical works, candy factories, all kinds of 
clothing, etc. To entirely satisfy any one desirous of investing 
money in the establishment of factories in our midst, it is, we feel 
assured, only necessary to come here and carefully look the field 
over, and even the most prudent and conservative man of judgment 
will not fail to recognize the fact that our statements have not been 
overdrawn, but are literally truthful. We invite the most careful 
investigation, and will cheerfully abide the result. Lincoln wants 
these interests, and will do her share in securing them. She has 
always heretofore, and will continue to pursue a liberal policy toward 
all enterprises calculated to benefit her and her people. 




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